How Long will a Flag Last?
Experience has proven that this is an impossible question to answer accurately. It is like predicting the weather, airborne contamination, and the treatment people will give a flag.
The major enemies of a flag are wind, sun and carelessness, the single greatest cause of flag deterioration. Neither you nor we can control the weather, but you can take care of your flag and lengthen its life. Continuous day and night display will shorten a flag's life. Our flags are manufactured to give maximum service in return for reasonable care and prudent use.
How To Properly Care For A Flag
Do not expose your flag to rain, snow or abnormally high winds. These conditions will shorten its life considerably.
Do not fly a wet flag. Flying a heavy, wet flag in the wind puts excessive strain on the fabric and stitching, and will greatly reduce the life of your flag. Should the flag become wet, it should be spread out and allowed to dry completely.
Do not fold or roll-up a wet or damp flag.
To keep its rich colors looking bright, clean your flag regularly, before soiling and discoloration from dirt, smoke, dust and other airborne contaminants “set” in the fabric.
Do not place the flag where the wind will whip it against rough surfaces, tree branches, wires, cables, etc. The smallest tear can soon result in a tattered flag.
Keep pole surfaces free of heavy dirt, rust, scale and corrosion that could damage your flag.
Inspect your flag regularly for signs of wear. In particular, look for “normal wear” fabric or thread breaks which may occur in the “fly” end (the end farthest from the pole).
Trimming off and re-hemming torn or frayed ends will help extend the life of your flag.
How to clean a flag:
Outdoor flags can be hand-washed with warm water and a mild soap, then thoroughly rinsed and spread out to dry.
Note to Large Flag Users (2' x 3' and Up)
Larger flags naturally represent a more significant financial investment and, as such, should be given maximum protection.
Keep your flag in good repair. Pay special attention for thread breaks which may occur in the “fly” end (the end farthest from the pole). Trimming off and re-hemming torn or frayed ends will help extend the life of your flag.
Always remember, no two flags receive identical wear. Because weather conditions vary, wearing conditions vary and, consequently, the life of each flag is different.
Your flag works hard. It shakes, it trembles, it drapes, it whips, it snaps, it bakes, it freezes, it ripples, it flutters, it furls, it twists, it flaps, it stains, it hangs!